Coronavirus live updates: India's tally of positive cases surges to 37,158 as nation gears up for Lockdown 3.0

Thank you for following Deccan Herald's live coverage of the coronavirus pandemic. Continue to follow our coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic on our new live blog right here. . The experimental drug Remdesivir has been authorized by US regulators for emergency use against COVID-19, President Donald Trump announced onFriday.It comes after the antiviral made by Gilead Sciences was shown in a major clinical trial to shorten the time to recovery in some coronavirus patients, the first time any medicine has had a proven benefit against the disease.

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. The government, on Friday, announced that the coronavirus lockdown will be extended for two weeks beyond May 4, but with some easing of restrictions.The Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement that in view of "significant gains in the COVID-19 situation", areas with few or no cases would see "considerable relaxations". In Maharashtra, which houses the country's economic capital Mumbai,the tally of positive casesstands at 11,506, the highest among all the states in India.In the biggest jump of coronavirus cases, the stateon Friday recorded an increase of 1,008 patients.

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. A view of parked autorickshaws and cars at a parking area are seen during a government-imposed nationwide lockdown as a preventive measure against the COVID-19. (AFP Photo)

. I have donated plasma for treatment of COVID19 patients twice now. If I am needed to donate it 10 times, I will do so: Arshad Ahmed, a Tablighi Jamaat member, who was quarantined at AIIMS dedicated COVID19 centre, Haryana. He has now tested negative for COVID-19.

. Test results of 68 more jawans have shown them COVID-19 positive. All jawans are attached to a battalion having camp in East Delhi. Total positive cases in this battalion have reached 122 and overall figure of COVID-19 cases in CRPF is 127, including 1 recovered and 1 death: CRPF

. An expert and a member of the State Covid Task Force has warned that abruptly lifting the lockdown would trigger a Covid-19 escalation.For Dr Giridhar Babu, epidemiologist and pandemic expert, the ongoing lockdown is like a game of cricket, but with deadly consequences.

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. Restrictions will continue in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad beyond May 3 as all of them have been designated as red zones, even as the number of such districts in India have reduced from 170 a fortnight ago to 130.

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. Indian Railways has maintained secrecy about its decision to operate special trains for stranded migrant workers, students, and tourists, to avoid mad rush in stations.

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. Three indigenous low-cost COVID-19diagnosticskitsmay be on the horizon, thanks to a Bengaluru-based agency that offers hand-holding to three start-ups for developing suchkitsusing innovative science.

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. The economic activity in the country hasn’t still picked up, despite the partial lifting of the lockdown by the government which allowed some of the industries to start functioning.

DHspoke to a cross-section of transporters and industrialists to get a perspective into the things andmost of them have complained about two things -- availability of raw material and availability of labour.

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. The government, on Friday, announced that the coronaviruslockdownwill be extended for two weeks beyond May 4, but with some easing of restrictions.

The Ministry of Home Affairssaid in a statement that in view of "significant gains in the COVID-19 situation", areas with few or no cases would see "considerable relaxations".

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. A railways official said that till now, 5 trains have commenced journeys carrying migrant workers, students andothers on the request of the respective state governments. The trains are - Lingampally in Telanganato Hatia, Aluva in Kerala to Bhubaneswar, Nashik to Bhopal, Jaipur to Patna, andKota to Hatia.

. Special trains will run for migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places only on the request of state governments. Anyone who wants to travel should contact state governments only: Indian Railways

. 4 zones have been removed from the COVID19 containment zones list in Delhi, the total number of containment zones in the national capital is now at 97.

. 2 more COVID-19 patients have recovered in Himachal Pradesh; number of active cases in the State are 5 now: Nipun Jindal, State Special Secretary (Health)

. Gujarat on Friday reported 22 deaths of coronavirus infected persons in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day casualties from the virus increasing the death toll to 236, second highest in the country after Maharashtra which has reported 485 deaths.

. 82 more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Rajasthan taking the total number of cases to 2666; 62 deaths due to the virus recorded in state till date: Rajasthan Health department

. "I welcome the announcements by the Chief of Defence Staff today. India has waged a strong fight against COVID-19 due to courageous frontline warriors who have cared and cured many. They are spectacular. India applauds them and their families," says PM Narendra Modi.

"Our Armed Forces have always kept the nation safe. Even in times of disasters, they are out there helping people. Now, our Forces are, in a unique way, saying a big thank you to our frontline COVID-19 warriors for their endeavour towards making India COVID-19 free," he said.

. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued additional guidelines on rational use of Personal Protective Equipment (setting approach for Health functionaries working in non-COVID areas).

. 90 cases registered, over 2,600 people detained for defying lockdown norms in Delhi.

Delhi government appoints 10 nodal officers to coordinate with different states for movement of stranded persons, following MHA order.

Delhi Government directs the Commissioner of Delhi and District Disaster Management Authorities to take all necessary measures incl establishing adequate no. of police pickets in all areas where migrant workers are residing, all inter-state borders must be completely sealed.

Delhi Government directs the Commissioner of Delhi and District Disaster Management Authorities that strict vigil should be maintained on interstate movement of goods carriers.

Delhi Government directs the Commissioner of Delhi and District Disaster Management Authorities that it should be ensured that no movement of such stranded persons should be allowed at the inter-state borders without following the protocol by the Government of India.

. 326 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Gujarat in last 24 hours. State total rises to 4721 including 736 cured/discharged and 236 deaths: State Health Department (ANI)

. Railways to charge states for ferrying stranded migrant workers during coronavirus-triggered lockdown: Officials (PTI)

. Movement of individuals in all zones, for all non-essential activities, shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm to 7 am.

In COVID-19 red zones and outside containment areas plying of cycle-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, taxis, opening of salons prohibited. Further,OPDs, medical clinics shall be permitted to operate in red, orange and green zones with social distancing norms during lockdown. Religious places and places of worship will remain shut during lockdown.

Places of large gatherings such as cinema halls, malls, gyms and places of political, cultural gatherings to remain shut.

Educational, training, coaching institutions and hospitality services including hotels and restaurants to remain close during lockdown.

Travel by air, rail, metro & inter-state movement by road and schools, colleges to remain shut during extended lockdown.

MHA amends Para 11 of the coronavirus lockdown extension order, 'in Orange Zones, in addition to activities permitted in Red Zone, taxis & cab aggregators will be permitted with 1 driver & 2 passengersonly'.

Liquor stores & paan shops will be allowed to function in green zones while ensuring minimum six feet distance (2 gaz ki doori) from each other & ensuring that not more 5 persons are present at one time at the shop.

A large number of other activities are allowed in the Red Zones. All industrial and construction activities in rural areas, including MNREGA works, food-processing units and brick-kilns are permitted: MHA on the extension of lockdown.

Movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm and 7 am during lockdown.

. Our police personnel are doing their job very well and they are deployed in the red zone. They are capable of undertaking actions in red zones also. No need has been felt for military deployment so far: Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat

. Ministry of Home Affairs issues order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 to further extend the Lockdown for a further period of two weeks beyond May 4: MHA

. DRDO has developed 3 types of new PU coated nylon/ polyester and technology transfer to manufacturers of India, saysPD Vaghela, Chairman, Empowered Group-3.

"Demand for PPE kits has been projected at 2.01 crore in India. We have placed orders for 2.22 crore kits out of which 1.42 crore kits are being procured in the domestic market. 1.87 lakh kits are being produced daily in the country," he said.

here is a demand for 35 lakh RT-PCR kits; ICMR has placed an order for 21.35 lakh kits. We have received 13.75 lakh kits so far, he informed.

. As per the guideline issued by Ministry of Home Affairs, it has been decided to run “Shramik Special” trains from “Labour Day” today, to move migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places due to lockdown. These special trains will be run from point to point on the request of both the concerned State Governments as per the standard protocols for sending and receiving such stranded persons. The Railways and State Governments shall appoint senior officials as Nodal Officers for coordination and smooth operation of these “Shramik Specials”.

Shramik special trains are planned to run on May 1, 2020

1. Lingampalli to Hatia 2. Aluva to Bhubaneswar 3. Nasik to Lucknow 4. Nasik to Bhopal 5. Jaipur to Patna 6. Kota to Hatia

. MHA now allows special trains to be run for transporting stranded people, earlier only buses were allowed for transportation.Ministry of Home Affairs has issued another set of guidelines in continuation to the one from April 29, enabling the movement of migrant labourers, stranded tourists and students.

. "In the last 24 hours, 1993 positive cases reported; the total number of positive cases is now 35,043, says Health Ministry briefs media on COVID-19 situation.

"1,993 cases were reported over the past 24 hours. Our recovery rate now stands at 25.37%," the ministry said.

There are 1,900 beds for COVID-19 patients in CAPF hospitals, says MHA briefs media on the COVID-19 situation.

. Five more people have been arrested in connection with the Palghar lynching case. They will be produced before a local court later today. A total of 115 people including 9 minors have been arrested in the case so far, inform Palghar Police.

The five people, who were arrested in connection with the Palghar lynching case, have been remanded to the custody of the Crime Investigation Department (CID) till May 13.

. Delhi: Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey hold a meeting with Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey through video conference.

. In letter to PM Narendra Modi, Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel seeks relaxation in the state's borrowing limit to 6% of the Gross State Domestic Product this year, requests that fiscal deficit of the state be made equal to 5% of GSDP as exception

. Phoolu (45), a full-time worker shows his hands after cleaning a manhole, during the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown, in Ghaziabad on Friday. Phoolu has a daughter and has been working since he was 10 years of age. He continues choicelessly to work inside sewer lines to earn a living amid this pandemic, exposing his body to added risk. (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary)

. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Friday ruled out lifting of COVID-19 lockdown from the red zones of Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra, that has the highest number of cases in India.

"The question is asked, what afterMay 3. I want to make it clear that we cannot lift the lockdown form red zones, like Mumbai-Pune belt, parts of Nagpur and some other places," Thackeray said in his webcast on the occasion of Maharashtra foundation day.

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. Scientists have developed a new mathematical model that they say can accurately estimate the death toll linked to the COVID-19 pandemic in the US, and around the world.

The model, published in the journal Mathematics, predicted that the death toll as a result of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes COVID-19 in the US would eventually reach about 68,120.

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. As India tries to gain control over the coronavirus pandemic, the period of lockdown, global recession and changes in consumer behaviour are the three factors which will shape the course of economic activities going ahead, says a report.

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. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said plasma therapy trials will continue as allowed by the Centre, encouraged by the recovery of a "serious" COVID-19 patient in the national capital.

The patient, who was serious and in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was discharged from the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) hospital on Friday and sent home.

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. Indian Railway has deployed first special train to ferry stranded migrant workers from Telangana to Jharkhand on Friday amidst the ongoing lockdown to contain COVID-19 .

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. Deccan Herald’s Pandemic Podcast focuses on the COVID-19 situation. In this episode, we focus on what’s happening in the silent kitchens of the food and beverage industry and also magnify. We also have a sports update by Sidney Kiran. .Deccan Herald's podcasts are now available on your favourite podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and many more. Do subscribe to our Podcast there!

. The number of red zone districtsin India hasreduced from 170 a fortnight ago to 130 with population-dense cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad – making it to the list where restrictions would continue beyond May 3.

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. ‘I am sevenmonths pregnant, no food in the house and my husband is not around. We are struggling too, won’t you help us?’ This was the response of one of the distress callers from Bengaluru when told that our group mainly works with migrant workers. Her situation is undoubtedly harsh. However, from just a few kilometres away, migrants from Bihar reached out saying, ‘We are being made a joke of, to get a single roti, a single meal.’ An unplanned national lockdown means that vulnerabilities have to be constantly pitted against each other.

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. ICMR and Center have cleared it that plasma therapy is a very technical therapy. Only those who have permission from the Center should perform this therapy. it should not be practised without permission. Delhi government has permission from Center: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain.

. Election Commission of India (ECI) grants permission for holding elections to the Legislative Council (MLCs) in Maharashtra. The necessary guidelines will need to be ensured for safety against COVID-19 during the elections. (ANI)

. During the initial days of the lockdown,Anika Mariam Varghese, a Class 8 student from Kottayam, Kerala, was scouring the internet to find homemade hand sanitisermethods and trying to source ingredients from shops that were open at the time.

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. There are points where we've been told to restrict movement, media not covered in those. For those working in hospitals&living in Gurugram, arrangements have to made there itself(in Delhi). Restrictions apply to Police too.Those who cross the border need to download Aarogya Setu app mandatorily, their thermal scanning will also be done, the arrangement of Rapid Testing is also being done. 24 hours videography will also be done at this check post.Movement of ambulances, cash vans, oil cylinders, the supply of gas, essential supplies, foodgrains, vegetable-fruits will not be stopped. Officers & employees of some ministries of central govt are exempt from restriction, we'll allow inter-district movement for them: ACP Karan Goyal on Delhi-Gurugram border sealed.

. The 11th Petersberg climate dialogue held in Germany this week assumed special importance as it took place when the coronavirus pandemic is raging in many parts of the world, including the host country. The online dialogue was attended by environment ministers from 30 countries, including Prakash Javadekar from India.

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. One more person from Balasore district tested positive for COVID-19, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in Odisha to 143, officials said on Friday.With the fresh case, the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in Balasore district reached 20. The new case is a 58-year-old male having a travel history to Kolkata. He was asymptomatic, they said.

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. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro wants to see soccer competitions start back up again soon despite the country's high number of coronavirus cases, arguing that players are less likely to die from COVID-19 because of their physical fitness.

Bolsonaro is one of the few world leaders that still downplays the risks brought by the coronavirus, which he has likened to "little flu."

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. The United Nations chief said he hopes many countries in the world will follow the “remarkable example” of South Korea, which he said has been “extremely successful” in addressing the coronavirus pandemic and is planning to tackle climate change in its recovery from COVID-19.Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pointed to Thursday's announcement “that there was no new case in the Republic of Korea,” the country's official name.

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. The novel coronavirus, that has killed over 230,000 people globally so far and has shattered economies, emerged from a virology lab in the Wuhan city of China, US President Donald Trump claimed Thursday with a high degree of confidence.

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. The United States recorded more than 2,000 coronavirus deaths in a 24-hour period for the third day running, according to the latest real-time tally Thursday reported by Johns Hopkins University.

The country -- hardest hit by the pandemic in terms of the number of fatalities -- recorded 2,053 deaths on Thursday, after 2,502 deaths on Wednesday and 2,207 on Tuesday.

At least 62,906 people have now died in the United States, according to the Baltimore-based university. (AFP)

. Remdesivir has been shown to speed up recovery times for patients with COVID-19 in a major US-led trial, becoming the first drug with proven benefit against coronavirus .

Here is what you need to know.

. Hit hard by the COVID-19 lockdown and forced indoors in densely populated makeshift sheds, migrant labourers in Bengalurustare at their bleakest future this World Labour Day. A citizen’s collective has sought a lockdown exit plan that minimises economic and social distress for this acutely vulnerable group.

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. As Kerala is witnessing an increasing trend in the number of unlinked coronavirus cases with a source of infection remaining untraceable, the state is now focusing on enforcinghealth hygiene likewearing masks.On Thursday alone 954 cases were registered in Kerala against people for not wearing masks. The police will be stringently acting against those flouting basic hygiene as a sense of carelessness in following the basic hygiene wasquite visible among the people, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

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. A Pepper humanoid robot, manufactured by SoftBank Group Corp. is seen at a hotel of APA Group that has been designated to accommodate asymptomatic people and those with light symptoms of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to free up hospital beds and alleviate work by nurses and staff members, in Tokyo, Japan. (Reuters photo)

. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on Thursday announced he has tested positive for the coronavirus, as the country's number of confirmed cases surged past 100,000 after its largest daily increase.In a televised meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said he has to "observe self-isolation" to protect his colleagues, suggesting a temporary acting PM.

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.Slum-dwellers queue to receive relief material in Kolkata. (AFP Photo). Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are among the states with the best recovery rates from coronavirus, whereas Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are among the worst.The recovery rate is just above 25% for the country as a whole, but there are wide variations among the states. Tamil Nadu tops the list with 56.75% recovery rate followed by Karnataka (39.58%).

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. Days before the lockdown is expected to end, the Centre on Thursday relaxed the criteria to classify red and orange zones in districts having one or more municipal corporations.The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba with Chief Secretaries and Health Secretaries of states.

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. Goods and services tax (GST) collection for March slipped to a record low of Rs 28,309 cr as on April 29, sources tell CNBC TV18

. "Had an extensive meeting to discuss reforms in the Mines and Coal sectors. Reviewed ways to ensure abundant supply, upscaling exploration, attracting investment, modern technology and keeping the focus on transparency," says PM Narendra Modi.

"Chaired a meeting to discuss ways to boost India’s defence and aerospace sector, with a focus on being self-reliant, boosting R&D, innovation and embracing latest technology," he said.

. About 60 Indian firms have got approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for RT-PCR testing kits for COVID-19. Out of the 60 companies, 5 firms got approval for indigenously manufactured kits and 55 others for imported kits.

. Asad Qaiser, Speaker of Pakistan National Assembly has tested positive for COVID-19 along with his son & daughter. He had met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on 24th April: Pakistan Media

. Fresh cases 76 Total 3515

Deaths reported today 3 Total toll 59

Discharged 2 Total recoveries 1094

Still in hospital 2364

. P-409, 67-year-old female from Bantwal, Dakshina Kannada, was admitted to Wenlok Hospital with SARI (past history of COPD and Diabetes) on 18/04/2020. Patient was on ventilator support and died today in Wenlok Hospital, Dakshina Kannada.

. 583 new cases and 27new deaths were reported today.

The state's tally as of now stands at 10, 498.

. The Union government had on Wednesday issued fresh directives allowing states to transport stranded students, migrant labourers, tourists and pilgrims to their home states or destination by strictly following guidelines meant to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

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. Vistara announced on Thursday temporary changes in its in-flight products and services to minimise the touchpoints of human contact on board by up to 80 per cent during the post-lockdown period.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the service alterations in domestic flights' premium economy class and economy class include a reduction in meal choices and withdrawal of services like onboard sales, welcome drink, hot meals and hot beverages, Vistara stated.

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. The chief executive of British pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca said it will know by June or July whether a coronavirus vaccine it is working on with the University of Oxford will be effective or not.

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. 118 positive cases reported in Rajasthan today so far-83 in Jodhpur, 21 in Jaipur, 4 in Ajmer, 3 in Chittorgarh, 2 each in Kota andTonk, 1 each in Alwar, Baran andDholpur; 3 deaths. Total cases here rises to 2556, including 58 deaths and836 recovered: State Health Department.

. A domestic worker has been working in a South Delhi household for the past 15 years but her employer has bothered neither attended her telephone call nor called her back to check about her well-being since the COVID-19 lockdown that started on March 25.

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. We havedecided to allow interstate movement, especially for students andmigrant workers. They willhave to bear the transport charges. We'll allow inter-district movement for once. It willhappen according to guidelines: Karnataka Minister JC Madhuswamy after thestate cabinet meeting

. The world, forced into lockdown by a dangerous virus, is longing for normal. But how will we know when normal has returned? We could wait for any of these: (a) herd immunity to be achieved; (b) a reasonably priced cure to be found and made widely available; or, (c) economic and mobility indices to claw back to pre- COVID19 levels.

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. The coronavirus is roiling global job markets, but the picture is not all gloomy. Finance, technology and consumer goods firms are hiring tens of thousands in the United States and other countries, according to data from Microsoft Corp's professional networking site LinkedIn.

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. Deccan Herald’s Pandemic Podcast focuses on the COVID-19 situation. In this episode, we focus on the effects of the lockdown on the real estate industry and speak to Origami expert Himanshu Agarwal on keeping the mental estate fit and fabulous. .Deccan Herald's podcasts are now available on your favourite podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and many more. Do subscribe to our Podcast there!

. Shares of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd rose almost 9% on Thursday after the Indian drugmaker got an approval to conduct clinical trials with antiviral drug favipiravir, seen as a potential treatment for COVID-19.Favipiravir, manufactured under the brand name Avigan by a unit of Japan's Fujifilm Holdings Corp and approved for use as an anti-flu drug in the Asian island country in 2014, has been effective, with no obvious side-effects, in helping coronavirus patients recover, a Chinese official told reporters at a news conference last month.

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. Any unsuccessful attempt at reopening the economy from the lockdown to battle coronavirus pandemic will diminish the credibility of the government, according to Raghuram Rajan."It is also ensuring that if there are fresh cases, how to isolate them quickly without having to go to second lockdown or third lockdown. Those would be devastating if we have to go there," he said in an interaction with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

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. A researcher in a lab coat in Beijing holds up the hopes of humanity in his fingers: "Coronavac", an experimental vaccine against the coronavirus that has upended the world.Sinovac Biotech, which is conducting one of the four clinical trials that have been authorised in China, has claimed great progress in its research and promising results among monkeys.

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. The disruption and chaos that coronavirus is causing the world over is a once in a lifetime experience for most of us. Over three million people have been infected, and over 219,000 people have died so far. It has not even spared the isolated Yanomami tribe in the Amazon rainforest. Nations have been imposing restrictions on their citizens, prohibiting air, rail and road travel, closing offices, shops and manufacturing units. Those who defy or violate the diktats have been arrested or penalised.

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. The phase three clinical trial of the antiviral drug remdesivir, led by a team of investigators including an Indian-American physician, for the treatment of the coronavirus patients has shown positive results, an American pharma company announced on Wednesday.

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. The Kerala - Tamilnadu border witnessed an emotional scene on Wednesday as a 15-day old baby born to a couple in Kanyakumari district was reunited with its mother after two weeks of treatment at a hospital in Kerala.

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.US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he'll resume flying around the country from next week and looks forward to holding "wild" campaign rallies as soon as he can. Trump told reporters in the White House that he is "going to Arizona next week and we look forward to that." This will be his first cross-country trip since the coronavirus pandemic shut down much of the United States.. The COVID-19 lockdown will continue mainly in the country's hotspots beyond May 3 when the extended period of the restrictions end but "many" districts will get "considerable relaxations".

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. The phase three clinical trial of the antiviral drug remdesivir, led by a team of investigators including an Indian-American physician, for the treatment of the coronavirus patients has shown positive results, an American pharma company announced on Wednesday.

. New guidelines to fight COVID-19 will come into effect from 4th May, which shall give considerable relaxations to many districts. Details regarding this shall be communicated in the days to come: Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs

. On CBSE examinations,yesterday I had a discussion with education ministers of states. I have very clearly told them that the CBSE exams that were not conducted due to #COVID19 outbreak will be conducted once situation becomes normal in the country: Union HRD Min Ramesh Pokhriyal

. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan says of the total active COVID-19 cases in India, only 0.33 per cent patients are on ventilators, 1.5 per cent are on oxygen support and 2.34 per cent are in ICU (PTI)

. Amid rising demands for allowing stranded workers and students to transport them to their native places, the Centre on Wednesday put in place a mechanism for their travel which includes allowing only those who are found asymptomatic after a mandatory screening of such people before the journey. Read more

. With 1813 new cases & 71 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 31787 (including 22982 active cases, 1008 deaths, 7797 cured/discharged and 1 migrated): Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (ANI)

. We have taken certain decisions that will be implemented from Monday if everything is alright. There will be relaxations in green zone & orange zone where standalone shops of essential items will remain open. There will be no relaxation for containment areas: West Bengal CM (ANI)

. COVID-19 can linger in a patient for one month so the third trial is on patients who have been cured/released for quarantine. It will be given to them as vaccine so that they don't redevelop infection. So Sepsivac has vaccine as well as therapeutic role: Dr. Ram Vishwakarma (ANI)

. A police constable along with homeless people takes a nap on a footpath in the backdrop of a mural, during the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown, in Prayagraj, Wednesday, April 29, 2020. (PTI Photo)

.Amazon India said on Wednesday it has introduced a partner support fund to help the small and medium businesses (SMBs) who are heavily reliant on the company. The company noted in a statement that SMBs across India have been financially impacted due to the nationwide coronavirus lockdown.This fund for SMBs in logistics will be available to delivery service partners and select transportation partners in India to help adjust their business model to the "new realities" posed during the lockdown, it said. "Through the one-time disbursement, the fund will support the partners in multiple ways. This includes enabling them to provide financial aid to close to 40,000 of their staff for the month of April 2020. Additionally it will help cover some critical fixed infrastructure costs, and support liquidity and cash flow for these businesses as they resume and scale their operations post lockdown," the company said. . New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Wednesday that she spoke to Queen Elizabeth II after the country emerged out a strict lockdown that helped contain the spread of the coronavirus.

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. Labourers ride atop food sacks at a wholesale market, during the ongoing nationwide lockdown in the wake of coronavirus pandemic, in Patna, Wednesday April 29, 2020. (PTI Photo)

. Vivekananda College of Engineering and Technology, Puttur, has come up with a low-cost respiratory support device ‘Viveka Jeevavardhaka’.The group of faculty members and technical assistant staff used locally available materials at the college IoT laboratory and have developed the respiratory support device.

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. The coronavirus outbreak is causing a rare stir in the usually staid global tea market, with labour lockdowns stifling supplies just as millions in lockdown drive up demand for the beverage known for its immunity-boosting properties.

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. The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to consider making available personal protection equipment (PPE) to all health workers engaged in non- COVID-19 treatment as asymptomatic patients of the viral disease are reported to be on the rise in the country.

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. Convalescent plasma therapy is the new buzzword in the fight against the novel coronavirus. Scores of people who have recovered from coronavirus have donated their plasma to help patients still battling the disease.

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. US President Donald Trump doubled down on China for failing to tame the coronavirus at its very origin, saying it has led to 184 countries "going through hell", as several American lawmakers demanded steps to reduce dependence on Beijing for manufacturing and minerals.

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. The Serum Institute of India said on Tuesday it plans this year to produce up to 60 million doses of a potential vaccine against the new coronavirus that is under clinical trial in Britain.Serum, the world’s largest maker of vaccines by volume, is mass-producing the vaccine candidate developed by the University of Oxford, which started testing it on humans last week, and is a leader in the global race to develop an antidote to the novel coronavirus.

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. Mainland China reported 22 new coronavirus cases for April 28, up from 6 reported a day earlier, putting its total number of COVID-19 infections to date at 82,858.

The National Health Commission said in a statement on Wednesday that the number of imported cases involving travellers from overseas rose to 21 on Tuesday from 3 a day earlier. New asymptomatic cases, involving patients infected with the virus but not showing symptoms, fell to 26 from 40 the previous day.

The total number of deaths in the mainland from COVID-19 remained unchanged at 4,633. (Reuters)

. The U.S. death toll from the novel coronavirus on Tuesday exceeded the 58,220 American lives lost during the Vietnam War as cases topped 1 million, according to a Reuters tally.U.S. cases have doubled in 18 days and make up one-third of all infections in the world, according to the tally.

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.From doing ‘parikrama’ of a Gurudwara to thank Sikhs for distributing langar to masses in Delhi to delivering an oxygen cylinder to a tribal woman in Kerala, cops have been winning hearts amid coronavirus in the last one month, as opposed to the brutal baton-charges by them which make them hit the headlines.The men in uniform enforcing strict COVID-19 guidelines have been praised in many cities in the country, with people showering petals on them from their balconies and roofs, a pleasant deviation from the routine fear regarding cops. The video of a moving gesture of Panchkula cops bringing a cake and a gift hamper to a senior citizen has gone viral on social media. Moved by the approach of the cops, the retired colonel was in tears. An IPS officer from Odisha tweeted the video with a caption “a great heart-touching work by Panchkula police.”In Jalaun in Uttar Pradesh, a cop posted at Kalpi border had given his plate of food and a water bottle to a hungry man in tatters. (DHNS). In the tug-of-war between India’s states and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s federal government for cash to fight the coronavirus outbreak, liquor has become the latest battleground.

A well-known teetotaler, Modi banned alcohol sales during the country’s national lockdown to contain the virus, blocking a crucial source of direct tax income for states already struggling to ramp up health infrastructure and provide food to millions left jobless.

Read more here

. One of the suppliers of the rapid test kits, Wondfo Biotech, has asserted that the kits have been 'validated and approved' by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology-Pune, according to reports.

. Mumbai CORONA Update 28th Apr. Till 6PM

Total Positive Case 5982 Today's New Case 393 Total Death 244 Today's New Death 25 (Highest in one day)

. Fresh cases: 206

Total cases: 3,314

No deaths reported today

Total death:54

Recovered: 201

Total Recoveries: 1,078

Still in hospital: 2182

. The first 1,000 coronavirus cases in Delhi were reported over a period of 42 days but the number of COVID-19 patients in the city went up from 2,000 to 3,000 in eight days, according to data shared by authorities.

. Mumbai's progressive toll stands at 244 as of today.

. The pandemic presented our politicians a great chance to reinvent themselves as responsible, empathetic leaders dedicated to the service of the people. But how have they made use of this opportunity?

Read more here

. The UN humanitarian chief said on Monday that USD 90 billion could provide income support, food and a health response to the coronavirus pandemic for 700 million of the world's most vulnerable people — a price tag just 1 per cent of the USD 8 trillion stimulus package the 20 richest countries put in place to safeguard the global economy.

Read more here

. People who have very mild symptoms of coronavirus or those pre-symptomatic can opt for home isolation if they have the requisite self-isolation facility at their residence so as to avoid contact with other family members, the Union Health Ministry said.

Read more here

. Businesses should close break rooms. Restaurants should consider disposable menus and plates. Schools should have students eat lunch in their classrooms.

These are some of the recommendations offered in new federal plans designed to help restaurants, schools, churches and businesses safely reopen as states look to gradually lift their coronavirus restrictions.

. Chief Secretary TM Vijay Bhaskar has ordered 100 samples of severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) and influenza-like illness (ILI) patients to be tested for COVID-19 per day for three days in coronavirus-free districts of Karnataka.

Read more here

. Lip-reading suddenly got tricky when everyone covered their face during the coronavirus pandemic, but Indonesian tailors have hit upon the perfect solution -- see-through masks.One husband and wife duo in Makassar on Sulawesi island started producing cloth masks with transparent plastic in the middle to help fellow deaf people.

Read more here

. The NITI Aayog building in the National Capital has been sealed for 48 hours, after a director level officer tested positive for coronavirus, a senior official said on Tuesday.

. Stranded students from various districts board a bus to reach their respective native placesin Prayagraj. (PTI Photo)

. The postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics will be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't brought under control by next year, the organising committee's president said in comments published Tuesday.

Read more here

. Aryaman Khosla, a Class XII student of the Doon school in Uttarakhand, has raised close to Rs 8.33 lakh through a crowdfunding platform to provide rations and other items to children and their parents associated with Parikrma Humanity Foundation.

Read more here

. Aryaman Khosla, a Class XII student of the Doon school in Uttarakhand, has raised close to Rs 8.33 lakh through a crowdfunding platform to provide rations and other items to children and their parents associated with Parikrma Humanity Foundation.

Read more here

.China cried foul a day after Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) asked the State Governments to stop using the rapid antibody test kits imported from two companies in the neighbouring communist country for detection of the COVID-19 infections.. An arthritis drug that was being closely watched for its potential use against COVID-19 has delivered disappointing results in clinical trials, its makers said Monday.

Read more here

. After nearly three weeks in an intensive care unit in Los Angeles, doctors treating 41-year-old Broadway actor Nick Cordero for COVID-19 were forced to amputate his right leg.

Read more here

. "The lockdown has had a positive effect in containing the virus. But it's imperative to also move focus on economic wellbeing. We need to rise now to ensure that the economy does not fall into a slumber that will take huge efforts to awaken. ‪The virus while controlled will be a threat till we find a vaccine. However, we need to find ways to work within a 'new normal' to bring this economy back to capacity in the shortest period of time. A depression in the economy is also a threat to this nation," said Sajjan Jindal, Chairman, JSW Group.

. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the risk of radicalisation can increase during the COVID-19 pandemic as extremist groups seek to exploit the anger and despair of the young, asserting the world cannot afford a lost generation due to the global crisis.

Read more here

. India's gruelling 40-day lockdown, which is scheduled to end on May 3, could be extended further, but the focus of Lockdown 3.0 would be on continuing curbs in hotspots and easing them in green zones.

Read more here

. More than three million cases of coronavirus have been officially registered across the world, with nearly 80 percent in Europe and the United States, according to a tally by AFP at 2050 GMT Monday using official figures.

At least 3,003,344 infections have been detected, including 209,388 deaths, mostly in Europe where there are 1,393,779 cases and 126,233 deaths.

The United States, the country where the pandemic is progressing the most rapidly, has 980,008 cases including 55,637 deaths.

The number of detected cases is believed to represent only a fraction of the true number of infections because most countries carry out only limited testing.

. The Delhi government will follow the Centre's guidelines on whether to extend the lockdown or not, officials said on Monday, after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attended a meeting held by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(PTI)

. Supreme Court staffer, working with judicial section, tests positive for COVID-19; had come in contact with two apex court registrars who have been advised self-quarantine: Source (PTI)

. The pandemic is far from over. WHO continues to be concerned about increasing trends in Africa,Eastern Europe, Latin America&some Asian countries. As in all regions, cases&deaths are underreported in countries in these regions because of low testing capacity: Director-General,WHO (ANI)

. The main highlight of the meeting (of PM with CMs) is that the COVID-19 situation varies from State to State so the States should be allowed to take a decision on the extension of lockdown: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel (ANI)

. A 57-year-old man died of COVID-19 in Kalaburagi on Monday taking the fatalities due to the virus in Karnataka to 20. Read more

. The main highlight of the meeting (of PM with CMs) is that the COVID-19 situation varies from State to State so the States should be allowed to take a decision on the extension of lockdown: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel (ANI)

. "We can't eliminate it, so we have to live with it," says Andhra Pradesh CM Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on coronavirus. In a televised address, asks people to take precautions to prevent the infection. (PTI)

. Death toll due to COVID-19 rises to 886; cases climb to 28,380 in India: Union health ministry (ANI)

. On one side they say lockdown should be strictly maintained on other hand they're saying to open all shops. What should we do? There is lack of clarity between what Central govt is saying and their directives: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (ANI)

. 1463 new cases and 60 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, said Health Ministry (ANI)

. We've decided not to implement the Central guidelines on the opening of shops, due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand. No shops will open in any areas of the State until May 3. However, shops that were earlier allowed to open will remain functional: CM Hemant Soren (ANI)

. We should avoid spreading misinformation and panic. No community or area should be labelled for COVID-19 spread. In particular, healthcare and sanitary workers or police should not be targeted as they are there to help you: Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health (ANI)

. Prime Minister said that a spike in #COVID19 cases could happen in June & July, so all the activities must be done accordingly: Chhattisgarh Health Minister TS Singh Deo who was present along with Chhattisgarh CM in video conferencing with PM today (ANI)

. A woman journalist has tested positive for coronavirus here, in the second case of COVID-19 in the district, a senior official said.

. Maulana Saad (Tablighi Jamaat chief) tested negative for COVID-19. He is not an absconder, nor has he been asked by Delhi Police to appear. We've not received any summons copy. We have received 3 notices till now&have responded to all 3: Fuzail Ayubi, Maulana Saad's lawyer to ANI

. It is a historic moment as the first dose of plasma therapy was given to a 58-year-old COVID-19 positive patient successfully yesterday. The plasma used was donated by 3 COVID-19 recovered patients: MLB Bhatt, Vice-Chancellor, King George's Medical University (KGMU)

. Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks & face covers will be part of our life: PM Narendra Modi in his video conference meeting with Chief Ministers

. COVID-19 related lockdown which is scheduled to end on May 3, should be extended further, with relaxations for economic activities within the state but the borders should be sealed: Goa CM Pramod Sawant

. I've demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on: Odisha Health Minister Naba Das who was present along with Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik at PM’s video conference meeting

. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held interactions with Chief Ministers to discuss graded exit plans to lift lockdown, to contain COVID-19 , after May 3, a broad consensus appeared firming up about not lifting the restrictions altogether with many states remaining wary of allowing inter-state movement from May 4.

. Price range approved by ICMR is Rs 740-1150 for RT-PCR and Rs 528-795 for Rapid Test. No test has been procured at Rs 4500. Any Indian company wanting to supply at lower rates is welcome to contact ICMR: Indian Council of Medical Research

. At the video conference meeting with the PM and Home Minister, we have mooted to continue with the lockdown post-May 3rd with relaxation on activities in Green Zones affected districts in Meghalaya, tweets Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma

. Till date, 511 COVID-19 positive cases have been confirmed, this includes 19 deaths & 188 discharges. 8 new positive cases have been reported from 5:00 PM yesterday till 12:00 noon today: Government of Karnataka

. CDC had previously listed cough, fever, and shortness of breath as symptoms of coronavirus. Now, the latest update reveals that severe chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell are also symptoms of coronavirus.

. 10 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Agra district in last 24 hours; the total number of positive cases in the district is now 381: DM Agra Prabhu N Singh

. A 50-year old coronavirus patient allegedly committed suicide by jumping from the fifth floor of a hospital building here on Monday, police said.

The patient jumped from the trauma ward of the Victoria Hospital, a senior police official said.

. India's total number of coronavirus positive cases rise to 27,892 (including 20835 active cases, 6185 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

. First COVID-19 positive case reported in Jamtara; the total number of positive cases in the state rise to 83: Jharkhand Health Secretary Nitin Madan Kulkarni

. 5 new COVID-19positive cases reported in Balasore District of the state; the total number of positive cases in the state rise to 108 (including 72 active cases, 35 recovered, 1 death): Odisha Health Department

. Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned to his Downing Street residence on Sunday after recovering from COVID-19, ready to take the helm again with pressure growing for the government to explain how it will ease a month-old coronavirus lockdown. (Reuters)

. A security guard deployed at the office of OSD to the Union health minister at AIIMS and a nurse working in Dr B R Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital of the facility have tested positive for COVID-19, sources said on Sunday. (PTI)

. At least 29 healthcare workers including doctors, nurses, paramedics & other staff of Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital in Delhi have tested positive for COVID-19. Results of 4 other cases are 'presumptive positive', as stated by a report of National Institute of Biologicals, Noida.

. Seven more people succumbed to coronavirus in Rajasthan, which reported 102 fresh cases, pushing the infection count in the state to 2,185 on Sunday, an official said.

With the new fatalities, the death count in the state has risen to 41.

The worst-hit Jaipur district alone accounts for 21 coronavirus deaths. (PTI)

. COVID19 cases rise to 322 in Punjab after 13 people test positive – 12 in Jalandhar & 1 in Ludhiana

. Congress member & leader of opposition in Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Badruddin Shaikh succumbed to coronavirus infection. Party's state spokesperson confirmed. Death toll in the state rises to 152.

. An ill-conceived report named as ‘FORCE’ put up by a group of officers through IRS Association giving suggestions on increasing taxes & releasing the same in media through IRS Association’s twitter&website is an irresponsible act of few officers: Finance Ministry Sources (ANI)

. As India recorded the highest one-day rise of 1,975 coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the country’s fight against COVID-19 is "people-driven" and this was the only way to overcome the pandemic. Read more

. 440 new positive COVID-19 cases & 19 deaths reported in the state today, taking total number of cases to 8068 and death toll to 342, till date in the state. 112 patients discharged today, while a total of 1188 patients have been discharged till now: Maharashtra Health Department (ANI)

. 1975 new COVID-19 cases and47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours in India: Health Ministry (ANI)

. Blocking burial or cremation of people who died of 'notified disease' will attract 3-year prison term in Tamil Nadu, according to ordinance promulgated by state govt. Read more

. MNCs, IT, BPO offices in Gurgaon may have to 'work from home' till July end in view of COVID-19 crisis: Senior H'yana govt official (PTI)

. 31 journalists have been discharged today after their second COVID-19 report came negative. All have been advised for 14 days home quarantine: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). (ANI)

. Assam government extends inter-district travel in the State by 3 more days to April 30, to allow two-way travel - from one destination to the other and vice-versa: Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma (ANI)

. 69 new COVID-19 cases & 2 deaths have been reported in Rajasthan today, taking the total number of cases to 2152 & deaths to 36 in the State. 518 patients have recovered from the disease so far: Rajasthan Health Department (ANI)

. Tune in!

. The Centre on Monday said the COVID-19 situation is "especially serious" in Mumbai, Pune, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata and a few other places in West Bengal, and violation of lockdown measures risk the spread of the novel coronavirus.

. I assure the migrant labourers that I am talking to the centre and whatever is possible will be done soon. One thing is sure that trains are not starting because we don't want a crowd, otherwise, lockdown will be needed to be further extended: Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray

. Today is Akshaya Tritiya but there's no celebration, I'm thankful for that. I want to appeal that it's Ramzan but don't go out to pray. Everyone's asking where's God. God is in everyone who's serving us in these hard times -Police, Doctors, cleanliness workers & others: Maha CM

. 1 new positive case has been reported in Karnataka from 25 April, 5 pm to 26 April, 12 pm. Total positive cases in the state stand at 501 which includes 18 deaths and 177 discharges: Health Department, Karnataka

. In the 7th week since the beginning of Corona pandemic, 850 cases were reported & in the 8th week - last week - 622 cases were reported. 21 people died in 7th week & 9 people died last week. In 7th week 260 people recovered&discharged, in 8th week 580 recovered&went home:Delhi CM

. Two police stations were temporarily closed yesterday after 6 personnel tested positive for C OVID-19. Following this, swab samples of other 105 police staff were sent for testing, of which all have come negative today: Sumit Saran, Coimbatore Commissioner of Police

(ANI)

. First reported death of a member of our medical fraternity in the state - Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores, West Bengal Health Services - who was tested positive for C OVID-19, reported in the early hours of 26th April 2020: West Bengal Doctors Forum

. The Covid-19 pandemic outbreak has claimed the lives of two policemen in Mumbai. While head constable Chandrakant Pendhurkar (57) died on Saturday, head constable Sandeep Surve (52) passed away on Sunday.

. The state government, on Sunday afternoon, said that just one new case had been registered in Karnataka by 12 pm. This a 47-year-old woman in Panemangalore, Dakshina Kannada, who contracted the disease from Patient 432, a 78-year-old woman in Bantwala, Dakshina Kannada, who died of complications from the disease at Wenlock Hospital in Mangaluru on April 23.

. Keeping an eye on every patient, checking on them personally: CM Kejriwal

Plasmas of Muslims can help heal Hindus and vice versa; if we work on this together, we can win in this fight against COVID-19

. Kochi: 164 Swiss nationals, who were stranded in Kerala due to COVID19 lockdown, airlifted from Cochin International Airport by Swiss Air yesterday. The flight took off from Cochin International Airport yesterday at 11.10 pm to Zurich.

. The people associated with medical services have expressed satisfaction with the ordinance that provides stringent punishment for those indulging in violence against corona warriors. It was critical to ensure the safety of all doctors, nurses and paramedical staff: PM Modi

This Ramzan, we should pray more than before to ensure that before Eid the world gets rid of Coronavirus. I am sure we will strengthen this fight by following orders of the local administration: PM Modi

. 2 Air India & 1 Blue Dart flights in two days bringing in about 78-tonnes cargo to India as part of 1 million PPE kits being acquired through a Singapore-based company: High Commission of India in Singapore

. (ANI)

. 58 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Rajasthan today so far- 11 in Ajmer, 1 each in Hanumagarh and Jhalawar,15 in Jodhpur, 7 in Jaipur, 3 in Kota and 20 in Nagaur. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 2141: Rajasthan Health Department

(ANI)

. Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association writes to Union Health Minister over accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine. The letter states, "It will be an important precautionary measure to control the spread of the virus."

. 13 COVID-19 patients have recovered in Jharkhand till now- 6 from Ranchi, 4 from Bokaro, 2 from Hazaribagh and 1 from Simdega. Recovery ratio in this week was 18%: Jharkhand Health Department

(ANI)

. According to ministry data, there are 26,495 cases out of which 19868 are active cases, 5803 have been discharged, and 824 have died. One person has migrated

. Karnataka: Bengaluru's Victoria hospital has deployed robot to serve food and medicine to c oronavirus patients, as a precautionary measure to mitigate the risk of infection to the hospital staff.

. The World Health Organization warned on Saturday that recovery from coronavirus might not protect a person from reinfection as the global death toll from the pandemic surpassed 200,000. (AFP)

. COVID19 cases rise to 309 in Punjab after 11 people, including 6 in Patiala, test positive

. COVID-19 cases rise to 66 in Jharkhand, after 7 people test positive – 4 in Ranchi & 3 in Palamau district: Officials

. 17 more persons have tested positive for coronavirus in Maharashtra's Nagpur taking the total number of cases in the Nagpur municipal limit to 119: Tukaram Mundhe, Nagpur Municipal Commissioner

. Delhi's Hindu Rao Hospital has been sealed temporarily after a nurse of the hospital tested positive for coronavirus. The hospital will remain sealed until the completion of the sanitization and contact tracing process.

. Six new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported from Jajpur in Odisha. All had returned from Kolkata. Contact tracing and follow up action are being done. Total positive cases in the state stands at 100: Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha.

. A 6-year-old girl from Hindpiri area of Ranchi tested positive for COVID-19 today. She was in contact with one of her relatives who is Coronavirus positive. It takes the total number of cases in Jharkhand to 67: Health Department, Jharkhand

. A Head Constablefrom Vakola Police station, who was battling Coronavirus for the past few days, passed away today, the Mumbai Police.

"May the departed soul rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family," Mumbai police said in a tweet.

. 61 new coronavirus cases reported on Saturday morning took the Andhra Pradesh’s tally to 1016 cases, with 171 recoveries and 31 deaths till now.

. In an ever-alarming situation, Maharashtra, and Mumbai in specific, recorded the highest jump in COVID-91 positive cases on Saturday. Throughout Maharashtra, as many as 811 cases were recorded.

. Delhi reports 111 fresh cases increasing the total number of reported cases to 2625. 1 death was reported today rising total toll 54. Number of active cases at 1702

. How do you travel from Mumbai to Allahabad when there is a lockdown? Buy 25 tonnes of onions, load them onto a truck and hit the road.

. Kerala government issues order to open shops except those in malls. Shops are expected to follow social distancing norms with only 50% staff who will have to wear masks.

. A plea has been filed in the Madras High Court seeking quashing of the complete lockdown announced by the State government for four days from Sunday in some cities and three days in some other municipal corporations.

. The average doubling rate of COVID-19 cases in the country is 9.1 days as of now and from Friday 8 am to Saturday 8 am, India recorded a six-per cent growth in new cases, which is the lowest daily growth rate recorded since the country crossed 100 cases.

The steep northward jump of 2,500-plus COVID-19 positive cases in Mumbai in a span of 10 days is a major cause of concern in India's financial capital.

. With 256 cases in Gujarat, total number of positive cases reported in the state crosses the 3000 mark to stand at 3071. Total number of deaths in the state stands at 133.

. Pulse politics has kicked up in the midst of the pandemic. While the government has been repeatedly reeling out figures of food and ration supply to the poor as one month of the 40-day lockdown to fight coronavirus has been completed, Opposition Congress on Saturday raises questions on the supply of free pulses to the poor.

. As many as 104 children under the age of 12 have so far tested positive for Covid-19 in Tamil Nadu, even as the state continued to report more recoveries on Saturday with the gap between discharges and active cases widening.

. 61 new coronavirus cases reported on Saturday morning took the Andhra Pradesh’s tally to 1016 cases, with 171 recoveries and 31 deaths till now.

. With 12 more deaths reported today in Mumbai, total number of deaths in Maharashtra rises to 322 and total number of deaths in India stands at 800.

. Emphasizing that the print media has already lost Rs 4,000-4,500 crore in the last two months with economic activities collapsing due to Covid-19, the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) has urged the government to immediately announce a two-year tax holiday for newspaper establishments and increase official advertisement rates and budget spending on the sector.

. Four persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Haryana's Gurugram today. Total positive cases in the district stand at 51 which includes 16 active cases: Health Department, Gurugram

. Union Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba today held video conference interaction with Chief Secretaries of all States&Union Territories to review implementation of lockdown restrictions in the country&resumption of economic activities as per the guidelines of the Government of India.

. BJP MP Ravindra Kushawaha said on Saturday that he would give a cash reward of Rs 11,000 to anyone providing specific information about people, including Tablighi Jamaat members, who hid information about their travels and avoided screening for COVID-19

. In a bid to help women maintain personal hygiene, a private firm manufacturing sanitary napkins, on Tuesday said it has managed to distribute 80,000 pieces of the product to the needy ones across the Delhi-NCR and Punjab during thecoronavirus lockdown...

. Karnataka has 500 COVID-19 cases. It includes 18 deaths and 158 discharges. Seven are in the ICU. Two patients sent to the ICU today. 26 new cases have been confirmed on Saturday in the state.

. The average doubling rate of COVID-19 cases in the country is 9.1 days as of now and from Friday 8 am to Saturday 8 am, India recorded a six-per cent growth in new cases, which is the lowest daily growth rate recorded since the country crossed 100 cases, the government said on Saturday.

. Himachal Pradesh govt eases curfew hours between 5:30 am and 7 am to enable senior citizens and general public to go for morning walks.

. The Karnataka government on Saturday commenced convalescent plasma therapy clinical trials for 'severe' coronavirus patients in the state.

. Inter-Ministerial Central Team writes to WB Chief Secretaryon their observations from yesterday'sspot visits in Howrah. Question PPE stock, contact tracing and quarantine of those who returned from Delhi's Tablighi Jamaat event.

. Across the developing world, thedefining imagesof the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic have been of migrant workers: abandoned, angry, starving. In their zeal to control the spread of the new coronavirus, governments have all too often betrayed their most aspirational citizens.

. Nepal extends ban on operations of domestic and international flights till May 15: Narayan Bidari, Secretary at Nepal Prime Minister's Office.

. It was agreed in the meeting that COVID-19situation in the country is under control and the steps taken by the government have shown positive results. Therefore, the use of rapid test kits has been postponed for now: Sources on today's Union Group of Ministers meeting

. 27 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Rajasthan today so far- 8 in Ajmer, 2 in Dholpur, 1 in Dungarpur, 5 each in Jhalawar & Jodhpur, 4 in Kota & 1 each in Bharatpur & Jaipur. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 2061: Rajasthan Health Department

. Govt should formulate a national plan for COVID-19 under the Disaster Management Act. It's time govt should rethink on lockdown measures; you cannot have lockdown of people and lockout of the economy: Congress leader Kapil Sibal

. Hair salons & barber shops render services. Our order is applicable to shops which deal in the sale of items. There is no order to open barbershops & hair salons. There is no order to open liquor shops too: Joint Secretary (Home Affairs) Punya Salila Srivastava

. There will be no relaxation in the guidelines of lockdown, in Lucknow. The system which has been followed so far will continue to be followed: District Magistrate of Lucknow, Abhishek Prakash

. Of the 6 new COVID-19 cases reported in Bangalore Urban area, 1 is a journalist: Dr K Sudhakar, Karnataka Medical Education Minister

. Chief Minister has directed officers that no public gathering be allowed until June 30. Further decision will be taken depending on the situation: Office of CM Yogi Adityanath

. 15 new positive cases have been reported from 24th April 5 pmto 25th April 12 noon. Till date 489 COVID-19 positive cases have been confirmed, including 18 deaths and 153 discharges: Government of Karnataka

. Another junior doctor at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital at Aligarh Muslim University tests positive for coronavirus, total COVID-19 cases in city rise to eight: Authorities

. Tamil Nadu: People throng B.B. Kulam farmers market in Madurai to buy essentials. Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami has announced a complete lockdown in the city from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM & 9 PM.

. Shops in markets/market complexes & shopping malls are not allowed to open. It is clarified that sale by E-commerce companies will continue to be permitted for essential goods only. It is further clarified that the sale of liquor & other items continues to be prohibited: MHA

. MHA issues clarification on order allowing the opening of shops. MHA release states, "In rural areas, all shops, except those in shopping malls are allowed to be open. In urban areas, all standalone shops, neighbourhood shops & shops in residential complexes are allowed to open".

. 2 more COVID-19cases reported in Bihar, from Naya Bhojpur & Buxar. The total number of coronavirus cases in the state now at 225: Bihar Principal Health Secretary Sanjay Kumar

. No relaxation in ongoing lockdown has been decided by the Government of Assam yet - like the opening of shops, beauty parlours etc. A decision in this regard will be taken only on April 27,2020: Assam Chief Secretary Kumar Sanjay Krishna

. 25 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Rajasthan today so far - 8 in Ajmer, 2 in Dholpur, 1 in Dungarpur, 5 each in Jhalawar & Jodhpur & 4 in Kota. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 2059: Rajasthan health department

. 1429 new COVID- 19 cases & 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours as India's total number of positive cases stands at 24,506 (including 5063 cured/discharged/migrated and 775 deaths):Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

. The spread of novel coronavirus in India has quickened in the past few days with new cases of coronavirus and COVID-19 deaths being reported every day. After the first confirmed positive case was reported on January 30 in Kerala, the epidemic has expanded its footprints in the country, affecting over 24,000 people.

. Delhi: IIT-Delhi has developed a COVID-19 test kit that has been approved by ICMR. "We started working on it by end of Jan&got it ready in 3 months. We wanted to contribute to affordable low-cost diagnostics that could be used in large numbers," V Perumal, Professor at IIT-Delhi said. (ANI)

. Nine CRPF personnel test positive for coronavirus in Delhi, according to officials. (PTI)

. A total of 983 coronavirus positive cases reported in Telangana, of which 291 patients have been cured/discharged. 25 deaths reported till date in the state: Etela Rajender, Telangana Health Minister

. COVID-19 death toll in Pune rises to 68 after 5 more fatalities; cases in the Maharashtra district climb to 1,094 after detection of 109 new infections

. MHA orders to exempt all shops under Shops & Establishment Act of States/UTs, including shops in residential & market complexes, except shops in multi & single brand malls, outside limits of Municipal Corporations from revised consolidated lockdown restrictions.

. Maharashtra Government has started distributing 3 kg of wheat at Rs. 8/kg and 2 kg rice Rs. 12/kg to 3 crore saffron ration card holders (people above poverty level) for May and June. About 4.5 lakh metric tonnes will be distributed: Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office

. Some Jamaatis were shifted to temporary jail on April 21 after a case was registered against them. They were tested for COVID-19 before being shifted to the jail. Later, a person from Maharashtra tested positive. He has been shifted to medical facility: Saharanpur SP City

. Delhi reported 138 fresh cases and three deaths due to coronavirus on Friday taking the total cases to 2,514 and death toll to 53.

Read more here

. Days before the Centre takes a call on the extension of the coronavirus lockdown, new research has emerged on Friday demonstrating how containment measures have averted approximately 200,000 hospitalizations in Italy as of March 25.

Read more here

. Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' on Friday felicitated a team of scientists from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, for developing an affordable test for COVID-19.A method to detect coronavirus developed by IIT which will significantly reduce the cost of testing, making it affordable for a large population in the country, got approval from the ICMR on Thursday.

Read more here

. Health Minister Harshvardhan on Friday said the efforts in tackling Covid-19 had saved the country from going into Stage-III of the outbreak and asked state governments to keep up vigil on the pandemic.

Read more here

. Karnataka is likely to start Convalescent Plasma Therapy for COVID-19 patients, who are critical, from tomorrow, Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar said here on on Friday. "We have already got approval for Convalescent Plasma Therapy.

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. Within hours after the Inter Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) sought details regarding the method of functioning of state government’s audit committee the West Bengal Government announced that 57 COVID-19 positive patients have died in the state.

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. In a bid to enable people confined to home during the ongoing coronavirus lockdown to see animals in the zoo here, the West Bengal forest department launched an app through which one can witness various moods of reptiles, mammals and birds, an official said on Friday.

. The fight against the COVID-19 pandemic brought home for the entire nation, the importance of being fully self-reliant, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday, even as he called upon the rural population to strictly adhere to the mantra of “Do Gaj Doori” (Two Yards Apart) to keep the virus away.

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. Our analysis shows lockdown has been effective in slowing the doubling rate of COVID-19 and saved lives. The lockdown decision was timely as the around 23,000 cases in India today could have been 73,000: Dr VK Paul, Niti Aayog member and Chairman of Empowered Group 1.

. The medical community has raised the alarmover US President Donald Trump’s suggestions for novel coronavirus treatments, which include the injection of a disinfectantinto the patient’s body and getting ultraviolet rays into the patient's skin.

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. When the whole country is fighting a war against COVID-19, Congress is only fighting against the central government. This behaviour of Congress at this time will be questioned someday and they will have to explain it then: Union Information andBroadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar.

. Barring the ultra-pessimist, many public policy opinion pieces are likely to advance one narrative over the next few months: The economic and humanitarian crisis unleashed by COVID-19 is also an opportunity to undertake long-pending reforms in <insert one’s favourite research area/sector.

. Parts of India have recorded dramatic falls in mortality rates after a nationwide lockdown was imposed to fight the new coronavirus , suggesting there has not been an undetected surge in virus-related deaths.

. Prime Minister Modi promised to provide all possible support for maintaining supplies of essential goods, including medical products to Singapore. PM also expressed his appreciation for the support being extended to Indian citizens in Singapore: Prime Minister's Office (PMO)

. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation with Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore on yesterday. The two leaders exchanged views on the health and economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic: Prime Minister's Office (PMO)

. 44 fresh cases & three deaths have been reported in Rajasthan today, taking the total number of cases & deaths to 2008 & 31 respectively in the State: Rajasthan Health Department

. Government of India informed theStates that the violations to lockdown measures reported, posing a serious health hazard to public and risk for the spread of COVID-19: Incidents of violence on frontline healthcare prof; complete violations of social distancing norms; the movement of vehicles in urban areas: Spokesperson, MHA

. 108 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Gujarat today. Now the total positive cases in the state stand at 1851, including 106 discharged and 67 deaths: Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Gujarat

. At least 40 healthcare staff including doctors, nurses and paramedics posted at gastroenterology department of AIIMS are under self-quarantine after a 35-year-old male nurse detected positive for COVID-19: AIIMS authorities

. 18 new COVID-19 positive cases (including 11 from Bengaluru urban) reported today; the total number of positive cases in the State is 463: Karnataka Government

. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking his intervention in bringing back the bodies of NRIs whose death occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19

. Padarayanapura cluster hadfive more new cases today and five more contacts of P 419 in Hongasandra ward test positive. Bengaluru reports 11 new cases. One of influenza-like illness and 10 from Padarayanapura and Hongasandra.

. We are happy with the positive results in the 4 patients. Blood & plasma is ready for 2-3 other patients that we have at LNJP hospital, we may give them the plasma therapy today: Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver & Biliary Science

. 778 more COVID-19cases & 14 more deaths reported in Maharashtra, as of 10 am today. Total cases in the state at 6427 & deaths at 283: Maharashtra Public Health Department

. The coronavirus pandemic has taught that we have to become self-dependent: Prime Minister Narendra Modi during interaction with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing.

. 6 more COVID-19 cases reported in Bihar, taking the total number of cases in the state to 176: Sanjay Kumar, State Principal Secretary (Health)

. 3,600 more stranded British travellers set to return from India on 14 new flights chartered by UK Govt. Once completed, these additional flights will bring the total number of people flown to UK from India on Govt charter flights to over 13,000: British High Commission in India

. 36 new positive cases (13-Jaipur, 18-Kota, 4-Jhalawar & 1-Bharatpur) reported in Rajasthan; the total number of cases in the State is now 2000: Rajasthan Health Department.

. A 4-month-old child from Malappuram who had tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday, lost his life today morning at Kozhikode medical college. The child was undergoing treatment for heart-related problems for the past 3 months& had pneumonia: Malappuram District Medical Officer

. India on Thursday refrained from supporting American President Donald Trump’s demand for China to allow a United States team to conduct a probe into the origin of the Covid-19 outbreak in the communist country.

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. A method to detect COVID-19 which will significantly reduce the cost of testing, making it affordable for a large population in the country, developed by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi has got the approval from ICMR, officials said on Thursday.

Read more here

. As the anti-Covid-19 lockdown completed a month, the Centre on Thursday said the spread of the outbreak in the country has been more or less linear and not exponential, giving adequate time to beef up the health infrastructure.

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. France on Thursday reported 516 new deaths from the novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours, bringing its overall toll to 21,856 fatalities, the country's health department said.

But the number of patients in intensive care is continuing a two-week decline, it said in a statement.

A majority of the deaths reported (13,547) were in the hospital, and the rest in retirement homes and other facilities.

. Fresh cases: 128

Total Cases 2376

Deaths: 2

Total deaths:50

Discharged today 84

Total patients discharged: 808

Still in hospitals: 1518

New Containment Zones: 3

Total Containment Zones: 92

. MHA clarifies Misplaced Apprehensions of Industry Associations regarding Legal liability on Company CEOs, if employees found COVID-19 positive.

No Separate/Fresh Permissions required from Authorities for Industries already permitted to operate prior to 15.04.2020, in areas falling outside Containment Zones.

. The number of coronavirus positive patients in Dharavi area of Mumbai crossed the 200- mark on Thursday after 25 new cases were detected, a civic official said.

. We have repeatedly urged PM there is no alternative to testing, tracing and quarantine; unfortunately, testing still is low. When we should be tackling coronavirus unitedly, BJP continues to spread virus of communal prejudice and hatred: Sonia Gandhi

. 12 crore jobs lost in the first phase of lockdown; unemployment likely to increase further as economic activity remains at standstill: Sonia Gandhi

. 4 more patients in the state recovered from COVID-19 . Total number of cured patients here jumps to 8: Health department, Jharkhand

. A total of 500542 samples from 485172 individuals have been tested as on 23 April 2020, 9 am. 21797 samples have been confirmed positive: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

. Novel coronavirus spreads through mobile phones a decision has been taken, as per WHO guidelines, to control the spread of infection. All doctors, medical staff, & patients must deposit their mobile phones outside and collect it while leaving the hospital: WB Chief Secy

. 47 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Rajasthan today so far - 20 in Jodhpur, 12 in Jaipur, 10 in Nagaur, 2 each in Hanumangarh & Kota, 1 in Ajmer. Total number of positive cases in the state rises to 1935, including 27 deaths and 344 recovered: Rajasthan Health dept

. President Ram Nath Kovind has approved to promulgate The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 which provides stricter punishments for attacks against health workers.

. Kerala CM announced that all elected representatives in the state -Ministers, MLAs, members of different Boards under Govt & members of Local Self Govt bodies would take a 30% cut in their monthly salary & honorarium for 1 yr: Information & Public Relations Dept, Kerala

. The nationwide lockdown in India which started about a month ago has impacted nearly 40 million internal migrants, theWorldBankhas said.

“The lockdown in India has impacted the livelihoods of a large proportion of the country's nearly 40 million internal migrants. Around 50,000–60,000 moved from urban centers to rural areas of origin in the span of a few days,” thebanksaid in a report released on Wednesday.

. As lockdowns continue to be the most widely-resorted-to response strategy to the threat of Covid-19, governments the world over face a difficult trade-off between saving lives and saving the economy. In India, the lockdown has imposed debilitating economic hardship, borne disproportionately by migrant and informal sector employees, most of whom have weak safety nets at best.

Read more here

. A storm is gathering and a sense of disquiet is palpable amongst migrant workers stranded far away from home and family, in state after state. With the lockdown 2.0 in force, the long road to normalcy will bring further trials and tribulations to the considerable migrant population. An estimated nine million people migrate within India every year from endemically backward regions, to large cities in search of livelihood. In the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, it is the migrant workers that are the worst hit and face the severest privation.

Read more here

. Is the lockdown an over-reach? In our anxiety about the potential health hazard posed by the coronavirus, have we taken an extreme risk on the economic front? It's important to ask this question.

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. Two people who died in California in early and mid February have been confirmed through autopsies as coronavirus cases -- weeks before the first reported COVID-19 fatality in the United States.

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. The Dalai Lama on Wednesday compared the ongoing global fight against the Covid-19 pandemic with a “lesson in universal responsibility” being taught to human beings by the mother Earth and stressed upon the need to realise the importance of sustainable development.

Read more here

. France on Wednesday reported 544 more deaths from COVID-19 in hospitals and nursing homes over the last 24 hours, but registered new falls in the total numbers of coronavirus patients.

Read more here

. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Wednesday said Britain is making some progress through the “peak” of the coronavirus pandemic crisis as the country's death toll from COVID-19 hit 18,100 – a daily rise of 759.

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. The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday that there were "worrying upward trends" in early epidemics in parts of Africa and central and South America, while also warning that opening up global travel needed to be managed carefully.

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. More than 180,000 people in the world have died from the novel coronavirus, nearly two-thirds of them in Europe, since it emerged in China last December, according to an AFP tally based on official sources.

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. 112 fresh cases have been reported in Uttar Pradesh today, taking total number of cases to 1449. 21 patients have succumbed to the infection while 173 others have recovered: State Health Department

. Delhi reports 92 new cases, taking tally to 2248. 1 death reported today, taking toll to 48.

New discharges 113 Total Discharged 724

In hospital 1476

. The decision on organizing Amarnath Yatra 2020 to be taken on reviewing the COVID-19 situation in coming future: PRO, Raj Bhawan, Jammu and Kashmir

. 3 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Nagpur; the total number of positive cases in the district is 76: Nagpur District Information Office

. The Health Ministry has directed all States to provide financial incentives to ASHA workers for undertaking COVID-19 related activities. The Ministry has also asked States to ensure that ASHA workers are supplied with adequate protective gear.

. With the West Bengal government deciding to lower the pitch, one of the Inter-Ministerial Central Teams visiting the state for an on-the-spot assessment of Covid-19 situation shot off a letter to the Chief Secretary asking him to provide a presentation on the issue, which includes whether the level of testing is adequate.

. Bill Gates writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi: We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India

. Maharashtra reports 431 new cases today, 18 deaths

. 11 new COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala today. 5 of them have foreign travel history and 3 infected through local contacts. Total number of positive cases in the state is 437 of which 127 are active cases: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan

. 1486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

. The revision classes for SSLC students will begin from April 29 through Doordarshan or Chandana channel. As the SSLC examinations were postponed due to Covid-19 pendamic and the nation-wide lockdown, the state Department of Primary and Secondary Education is conducting revision classes. To reach out to students who are at rural areas, the department has selected Doordarshan/Chandana

. The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline.

It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety!

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2020

. There are 260 casesin Haryana out of which 153 people have recovered & three died. 511 tests have been conducted on each 10 lakh people in the State. There is no case in three districts: Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar

. 9 new COVID19 cases (2-Bengaluru, 5-Kalaburagi, 2-Mysuru) confirmed in the state from yesterday 5:00 PM to today 5:00 PM. The total number of positive cases in the state is now 427 including 131 discharged and 17 deaths: Government of Karnataka

. Twenty-seven people tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, the second largest single day rise in COVID-19 cases in the Union Territory, taking the toll tally to 407.

. Centre lectures Bengal on Covid-19 preparedness, sends teams, but doesn't provide proper testing kits: CM Mamata Banerjee

(PTI)

. MHA to States: Ensure adequate security to healthcare professionals, medical staff & frontline workers to prevent violence against them. Strict action to be taken against those who obstruct the performance of last rites of COVID warriorssuccumbing to COVID-19.Spokesperson, Home Ministry

. Four police personnel were injured in Baduria in West Bengal's South 24 Paraganas district on Wednesday. A mob pelted stones at them over distribution of aid. WB govt stated that the incident has nothing to do with PDS.

. A 55-year-old COVID19 patient, resident of Weir, district Bharatpur who was admitted in SMS hospital Jaipur on 18th April passed away on 20th April. She suffered from diabetes: Rajasthan Health Department

. Health Ministry will brief media on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. Cabinet briefing will be held on every Wednesday: Union Minister PrakashJavdekar

. "The COVID attackers will be fined from Rs 50,000 upto Rs 2 Lakh depending on the intensity of the crime," said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in a press briefing.

"Acts of violence against healthcare service personnel to be made cognisable, non-bailable offences," he said.

"In case of grievous injuries, the accused can be sentenced from 6 months to 7 years. They can be penalised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh," he said.

"If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," he informed.

. Tablighi Jamaat members protested at Sultanpuri quarantine facility. They claim that the Delhi Govt is not providing facilities, according to reports.

. Five more persons tested positive for COVID-19; total number of cases in the state stands at 136. Contact tracing is being done: Sanjay Kumar, Principal Secretary, Health Department, Bihar

. COVID-19 patients, who go to private hospitals for their own treatment, shall the bear the cost from their own pocket. However, no private hospital shall charge them exceeding CGHS (NCR rates) valid in NCR Delhi, says Punjab's principal health secretary Anurag Agarwal (ANI)

. 5 more COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Bihar - 3 in Patna, 1 in Bihar Sharif & 1 in East Champaran. Contact tracing is being done. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 131: Sanjay Kumar, Principal Secretary, Health Dept, Bihar

. The daily 4 pm Union Health Ministry media briefing has been cancelled for today.

The daily Health Ministry briefing was cancelled because there is a cabinet meeting and the subsequent briefing this evening which will carry the health ministry related information. Additional information will be given in press releases today, according to Government Sources (ANI)

. Aligarh: A clash broke out between Police & a group of people in the city today. Circle Officer says, "Vegetable sellers were quarreling among themselves when shops were being closed. When Police intervened, people started pelting stones at them." (Note: abusive language)

. Till Wednesday noon, 425 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka. This includes 17 deaths and 129 discharges. Seven new positive cases have been reported till noon. Five from Kalaburagi and two from Bengaluru Urban. This includes two SARI cases, one each from Bengaluru Urban and Kalaburagi. The other five cases are contacts of previously diagnosed patients.

A total of five positive cases including a four-month-old child tested positive for coronavirus in Kalaburagi on Wednesday.

. Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope and the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) visit quarantine facility at Dharavi transit camp.

A total of 180 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported till now in Dharavi area of Mumbai, with several people under quarantine.

. Indian Medical Association (IMA) withdraws their protest after their meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan via video-conferencing today.

. An employee of the ministry who had attended office on 15 April 2020 has tested positive for COVID-19 on 21st April. All necessary protocols are being stringently followed on the Premises. All colleagues who came in contact are being asked to go into self isolation as a precaution.

Government of Delhi is seized of the matter. They are taking appropriate steps as per the laid protocol for contact tracing and risk profiling. -- tweets Ministry of Civil Aviation.

. As of today, there are a total of 2186 positive cases in Delhi, 75 of these were found yesterday. A total of 611 people - 28% of the patients, have recovered. 27 patients are in ICU and 5 on ventilator: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain (ANI)

. Coronavirus cases increase to 813 in Andhra Pradesh with the addition of 56, toll goes up to 24: Govt bulletin (PTI)

. Media persons are covering incidents relating to COVID-19 in the country involving travel to containment zones, hotspots and other affected areas. It's advised that all such media persons may take health and related precautions while performing duties: Ministry of Information&Broadcasting

. 553 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in the last 24 hours in Maharashtra as the total number of positive cases in the state stands at 5229. 19 more deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours as the total death in the state rises to 251: Public Health Dept, Govt of Maharashtra

. 17 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Rajasthan so far - 1 each in Ajmer, Banswara and Nagour, 2 each in Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur & Kota and 8 in Jaipur. Total of positive cases in the state rises to 1495. Total 24 deaths and 205 recovered in the state, according to theRajasthan Health department.

A 62-year-old man from Nagour, admitted at a hospital, died last night. He was also suffering from hypertension,Rajasthan health department reported.

. WHO rules out 'lab manipulation' theory, cites evidence to say coronavirus originated from animals.

The World Health Organisation (WHO), on Tuesday, said that evidence suggests that novel coronavirus originated from animals and was not manipulated or produced in a laboratory.

"All available evidence suggests the virus has an animal origin and is not manipulated or constructed in a lab or somewhere else," WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib said during a news briefing in Geneva. "It is probable, likely, that the virus is of animal origin," she further said, Reuters reported.

. "US won’t issue fresh Green Cards for 60 days", says Donald Trump after a temporary suspension of immigration.

. Five more COVID-19 deaths in Gujarat; state toll goes up to 95, informed the state health official.94 new COVID-19 cases in Gujarat; state tally jumps to 2,272, he said.

(PTI)

. Union HM Amit Shah & Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan interacted with Indian Medical Association doctors through video conferencing today. HM assured them security & appealed to them to not to do even symbolic protest as proposed by them, govt is with them.

. A malaria drug widely touted as a potential cure for COVID-19 showed no benefit against the disease over standard care -- and was in fact associated with more deaths, the biggest study of its kind showed Tuesday.

. Scientists across the globe are trying to solve the mystery of the novel coronavirus as they look into unlocking the genetic code of the deadly virus through genome analysis.

. A 53-year-old man who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away last night. Death toll in Pune district rises to 55: Health Officials, Pune, Maharashtra

. Madhya Pradesh govt arranges 155 buses for over 4000 students stranded in Rajasthan’s Kota, according to reports.

. "A Special IG level officer in CID is investigating the matter. But I would like to mention that police arrested 101 persons within 8 hrs of the offence. We're releasing the names of accused via WhatsApp today, there's no Muslim in that list," said Maharashtra Home Min on Palghar incident.

"There was a sound heard in the video 'Oye Bas', people circulated it online and some called it 'Shoeb Bas'. All state mechanism is fighting the pandemic & some people tried to bring communal angle in this matter," he said.

. Out of the 704 samples tested yesterday for COVID-19, results of 12 are positive: King George's Medical University, Lucknow

. 64 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan, as of 9 AM. Total cases in the state now at 1799, including 274 recovered, 97 discharged and 26 deaths: State Health Department: Rajasthan Health Department (ANI)

. "On International Day of Mother Earth, we all express gratitude to our planet for the abundance of care & compassion. Let us pledge to work towards a cleaner, healthier & more prosperous planet.

A shout out to all those working at the forefront to defeat COVID-19. #EarthDay2020" tweets PM Narendra Modi.

. 50 deaths and 1383 new cases reported in last 24 hours as India's total number of positive cases stands at 19,984 (including 3870 cured/discharged/migrated and 640 deaths): Health Ministry

. 3 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Odisha. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 82 (including 30 cured/discharged and 1 death): State health department

. Global coronavirus infections surpassed 2.5 million on Tuesday, according to a Reuters tally, with U.S. cases nearing 800,000.

. India has dropped two places on a global press freedom index to be ranked 142nd out of 180 countries in the annual Reporters Without Borders analysis released on Tuesday.

. Bengaluruand Mumbai are likely to have a second wave of coronavirus infections after the lockdown is lifted on May 3 unless measures are taken to aggressively trace, localise and isolate COVID-19 cases.

. IMCT had arrived without any prior consultation with us and, therefore, there was neither such opportunity to provide any logistic support as envisaged in the order dated 19th April 2020 nor the team asked for any help: West BengalChief Secretary to Union Home Secretary, in a letter dated April 21.

IMCTyesterday visited different parts of the Kolkata in West Bengal 'to make an on the spot assessment of the implementation of the lockdown measures'.

. IMF predicts in its latest World Economic Outlook that US economy to shrink 5.9% and the global economy to decelerate 3%, according to reports.

. US has recorded more than 8,00,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 44,845 deaths so far. Nearly 40,000 new cases reported between Monday 8:30 pm local time, and Tuesday at the same time: AFP news agency quoting Johns Hopkins University

. As we try to come to grips with the Covid-19 pandemic, which has killed nearly 600 in India and over 1.7 lakh people across the world so far, it is important to view this in a wider perspective of life and death as it has existed and continues to exist for most Indians and ponder over what it tells us about our society, our people, our public policy.

Read more here

. Scientists across the globe are trying to solve the mystery of the novel coronavirus as they look into unlocking the genetic code of the deadly virus through genome analysis.

Read more here

. With the United States of America acquiring the dubious distinction of having the highest caseload of Covid-19 patients and deaths globally, there are some important lessons fordevelopingcountriesas the US is often seen as the trendsetter in terms of corporate and organisational best practices.

Read more here

. The UK government on Tuesday announced a 20 million pounds funding for a University of Oxford project working on developing a vaccine against the novel coronavirus, which is now ready for acceleration as it begins human trials from Thursday.

Read more here

. Bengaluruand Mumbai are likely to have a second wave of Covid-19 infections after the lockdown is lifted on May 3 unless measures are taken to aggressively trace, localise and isolate Covid-19 cases.

Read more here

. The CM had already declared that Manipur was virus free

. Educational books shops, shops of electric fans, research establishments in agriculture and horticulture, inter-state movement of planting materials and honey bee colonies, honey and other beehive products exempted from COVID-19 lockdown restrictions: MHA

MHA issues SOPs on sign-on/sign-off for Indian seafarers at Indian ports & their movement

. 159 COVID-19 cases reported in Rajasthan today, as of 9 pm. Total cases in the state now at 1735, including 274 recovered, 97 discharged and 26 deaths: State Health Department

. (ANI)

. Former Madhya Pradesh CM Digvijaya Singh asks Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry to telecast Doordarshan's popular shows, including 'Bharat Ek Khoj' and 'Humlog', during lockdown

. Says exemption also for ●Caregivers of senior citizens residing with them ●Prepaid mobile recharge utilities ●Food processing units in urban areas

. If human remains of suspected or confirmed cases of coronavirus arrive into India, the airport health officer will verify the death certificate mentioning the cause of death, 'No objection certificate' for the transportation of human remains issued by Indian missions and embalming certificate issued by an authorized agency.

. On Tuesday, 19 deaths were reported pushing the total deaths to 251 while the positive cases increased by 251 rising to an alarming level of 5,218. Meanwhile, 150 patients were treated and discharged taking the numbers to 722.

. Delhi Covid-19

Fresh Cases 75 Total Cases 2156

No new deaths.

Total toll 47

Discharged 180 Total 611

In hospital 1498

. 552 new COVID-19 cases & 19 deaths reported in Maharashtra today, taking total number of cases to 5218 & deaths to 251 in the State. With 150 patients discharged from hospitals today, the number of cured patients stands at 722: Maharashtra Health Department

. Gujarat records 13 deaths of COVID-19 patients, highest in a day. Death toll rises to 90 which is said to be second highest after Maharashtra. Total positive cases rise to 2,178 in the state

. Number of COVID-19. cases reaches 251 in Punjab including 49 cured & 16 deaths. 62 cases have been reported in SAS Nagar, 48 in Jalandhar & 31 in Patiala: Punjab Health Department

. Maharashtra Govt amends its earlier orders & allows door to door delivery of newspapers in the State except in M'bai Metropolitan region,Pune Metropol region&COVID19 containment zones.Instructions issued for door to door delivery procedures like delivery persons to wear masks etc

. 19 new COVID-19 cases (10-Kannur, 4-Palakkad, 3-Kasargod, 1-Malappuram, 1-Kollam) reported in the State today. 12 persons have recent foreign travel history. Total active COVID-19 cases in the state reaches 117: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan

(ANI)

. 30 lakh more people who don't have ration cards will be given ration. Nearly 1 crore people in Delhi are being given free ration: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

(ANI)

. Total number of C OVID-19 positive cases rise to 18985 in India (including 15122 active cases, 3260 cured/discharged/migrated people and 603 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

. A survey among migrant workers spread across eight states has revealed that 53% were laid off during the ongoing coronavirus lockdown announced on March 24, while 60% were in urgent need for assistance, mostly food, as they were left with resources that would barely last a week.

. 10 new cases have been confirmed for COVID-19 in Karnataka from 5:00 PM yesterday till 5:00 PM today. Cumulatively, 418 positive cases have been confirmed in the state now, it includes 17 Deaths & 129 Discharges

. MHA writes to Bengal govt asking it to adhere to its Apr 19 order on sending central teams to seven districts for on-the-spot assessment

. Till now, there are 18601 positive cases. So far, 3252 people have recovered including 705 people who recovered yesterday. This takes our recovery percentage to 17.48% - Lav Agarwal

. 4,49,810 tests for COVID-19 conducted so far in India; 35,852 samples tested on Monday: ICMR

. Will advise all states to refrain from using rapid test kits for following 2 days

. covidwarriors.gov.in has been created as a master database of healthcare professionals & volunteers. Till now, details of 1.24 crore human resources of various kinds have been added to it: Chairman of 4th Empowered Group

. Plasma therapy holds great promise in treating COVID-19 patients and I am happy to inform that ICMR agreed to our request and has given permission for plasma treatment to Dr. Vishal Rao, HCG Bangalore Institute of Oncology: Dr. K Sudhakar, Karnataka Medical Education Minister

. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal says Jaipur became the hotspot of coronavirus because of the carelessness of administration in effectively restricting public movement (PTI)

. 83 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan today, taking a total number of positive cases in the state to 1659 now. 25 deaths have been reported till date: Rajasthan Health Department

. 131 people have been arrested for deliberate violation of the safety restrictions since morning till 1200 hours today. A total of 4 vehicles have been seized in the same period: Kolkata Police

. "British Airways special chartered flight carrying 222 UK nationals and 28 Indians will depart for London shortly from Amritsar International Airport," said KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab.

. "State government in convergence with Government of India initiative will ensure that Rs 50 lakh is given for all health personnel (private and public) and members of all other support services who lose their precious lives in the fight against COVID-19," said Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik.

"State will treat them as martyrs & provide state funeral with state honors. A detailed scheme of awards will be instituted recognizing their unparalleled sacrifice.These awards will be given on national days," he said.

"Any act against them (health personnel) is an act against the state. In case anyone indulges in any act that will disturb or dishonor their work,very strict criminal action will be taken against them including invoking provisions of National Security Act," he informed.

. Maharashtra: Gajanan Pakmode & his wife from Karkheda village of Washim have dug a 25-feet deep well at the premises of their house in 21 days. Gajanan says," due to Coronavirus lockdown we couldn't go outside. So my wife and I decided to do something."

. 30 foreign Jamatis have been arrested after completing their quarantine period in Prayagraj: Report

. Cumulative positive COVID-19 cases (including 14 Italian Nationals) stand at 252 now, of which 142 have been discharged. Total 2 deaths reported till now: Health Department, Haryana

. 35 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Andhra Pradesh today so far - 3 each in Ananthpur & Krishna, 9 in Guntur, 6 in Kadapa 10 in Kurnool & 4 in West Godavari districts. Total no.of positive cases rises to 757 (including 22 deaths & 96 discharged): State Command Control Room (ANI)

. Kadi In its endeavour to support the Gujarat Government in ensuring successful lockdown and encourage villagers to stay at home, Johnson Controls - Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited (JCH-IN) has initiated Mobile Primary Health Centres (PHCs). To combat COVID-19 it is very critical to ensure lockdown in rural areas so as to minimise the spread of the deadly virus. As part of its CSR initiative, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd (JCH-IN) has equipped its Primary Health Centres with medical specialists, paramedic and 24x7 kitted ambulance to address the medical needs of villagers at their doorsteps. Also, specially trained staff of the Primary Health Centre is educating villagers on the significance of sanitisation, social distancing, immunity boosting and other preventive measures to combat COVID-19. In a press statement, Gurmeet Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd. said, “The COVID 19 crisis is one of the toughest challenges that mankind is facing today. As a socially responsible company, JCH-IN is committed to support India in fighting the COVID-19 disaster. Generating high decibel awareness around sanitisation and social distancing is a big task in front of Rural India. The medical specialists provided by JCH-IN have been advising, guiding and encouraging the rural populace in Gujarat to stringently follow the various Central and State government guidelines issued on combating COVID-19. Also, timely and accurate diagnosis is provided by the medical specialists for ailments is helping the State government medical authorities to mitigate the huge overload on the medical system caused by the pandemic.”

. Till noon, 415 COVID-19 positive cases have been confirmed in Karnataka. This includes 17 deaths and 114 discharges. Seven new positive cases and one death has been reported till noon.

Death: P-414, an 80-year-old man, resident of Kalaburagi, was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease from the past four years and was bed-ridden for the past three years. He got admitted on April 19th at a designated hospital in Kalaburagi with a complaint of severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) and passed away.

. 6 more deaths in Gujarat due to COVID-19, death toll rises to 77. 127 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in the state taking the total of positive cases to 2066 including 131 recoveries/discharges and 77 deaths: Health Department, Gujarat (ANI)

. In our continuous endeavour to ramp up COVID-19 testing, upon receiving the first set of rapid test kits from ICMR day before yesterday, 78 rapid tests were carried out yesterday—64 in Howrah&14 in Kolkata. Only 2 cases were found positive, both from Kolkata, tweets Health Dept, West Bengal

. As on April 20, total samples collected in Arunachal Pradesh are 439 of which 405 tested negative, 0 tested positive and results of 34 are awaited, tweets AP Chief Minister Pema Khandu

. 25 hospital staff including 19 nurses tested positive for COVID-19 in Ruby Hall Clinic: Bomi Bhote, Chief Executive Officer, Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, Maharashtra

7 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Nagpur district today, taking the total number of positive cases here to 88: District Information Office, Nagpur, Maharashtra

(ANI)

. Three police personnel in Nabi Karim area have tested positive for #COVID19. Their test results came yesterday: Delhi Police

Nabi Karim area is one of the 84 containment zones in the national capital.

. Five more persons tested positive for novel coronavirus in Odisha on Tuesday, taking the total number of such cases to 79 in the state, a health department official said. (PTI)

. Five more positive cases from Rajpura in Patiala. 5 positive cases from the same source which came positive. All asymptotic. Same line of contact tracing, according to KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab

. 80-year-old COVID-19 patient dies in Karnataka's Kalaburagi district; death toll in state rises to 17: Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar

. Britain's record-breaking Queen Elizabeth turns 94 on Tuesday but the coronavirus lockdown means there will be little fanfare to mark the occasion.

. Goldman Sachs Group Inc is forging new partnerships with customers who may be facing financial hardships during the coronavirus, counting on them to be good borrowers and depositors once the global recession recedes, the executive who manages its consumer bank told Reuters.

. "In light of the attack from the Invisible Enemy, as well as the need to protect the jobs of our GREAT American Citizens, I will be signing an Executive Order to temporarily suspend immigration into the United States!" tweets US President Donald Trump.

. Karnataka has the worst doubling rate in south India even as confirmed cases of COVID-19 registered a two-fold growth at a slower rate during the lock down when compared with the period when there were no restrictions.

. In a LinkedIn post on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that thecoronavirusdoes not see a person's religion, race, colour, caste or creed before striking.

. Without national unity and global solidarity, trust us, worst is yet ahead of us. It's a virus that many people still don't understand, many countries, very developed, are putting wrong conclusions because they didn't know&got into trouble: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General (ANI)

. An FIR has been filed against a Kannada TV anchor allegedly for preparations to organise a guest packed wedding at his resort near Bengaluru, Karnataka.

. One COVID-19 positive case found in Rashtrapati Bhavan, 125 families advised to remain in self-isolation as mandated by the Health Ministry’s guidelines as a precautionary measure: Sources (ANI)

. The World Health Organization insisted on Monday that it sounded the alarm on the novel coronavirus right from the very start and had hidden nothing from Washington about the deadly pandemic.WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said there were no secrets at the UN agency after facing scathing criticism from Washington, which has accused the organisation of initially downplaying the outbreak in China.

Read more here

. The British government on Monday said there were "encouraging signs" that the coronavirus outbreak was easing but warned it was too early to lift the lockdown despite new evidence of the economic toll.

Read more here

. France on Monday officially registered more than 20,000 deaths from coronavirus infections, becoming the fourth country to go beyond that threshold after Italy, Spain and the United States, and the pace of increase of fatalities sped up again after several days of slowing.

Read more here

. Italy reported its first drop on Monday in the number of people currently suffering from the novel coronavirus since it recorded its first infection in February.

Read more here

. Karnataka has the worst doubling rate in south India even as confirmed cases of COVID-19 registered a two-fold growth at a slower rate during the lockdown when compared with the period when there were no restrictions.

Read more here

. The Karnataka Cabinet on Monday said thatlockdownmeasures to contain the spread of Covid-19 will continue “as is” till May 3 with norelaxation, in a decision that supersedes Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa’s announcement on April 18 that some economic activities will be permitted after April 20.

Read more here

. Oil plunged to the lowest level since 1986 as a deadly pandemic ravaging global economies threatens to erase an entire decade of demand growth, slashing thousands of jobs and wiping out hundreds of billions of dollars from company valuations.

Traders fled the May contract ahead of Tuesday’s expiration. Industrial and economic activity is grinding to a halt as governments around the globe extend shutdowns due to the swift spread of the coronavirus. Oil has faced its own knock-on effects with a market massively oversupplied and nowhere to put physical barrels. Despite the unprecedented output deal by OPEC and allied members a week ago to curb supply, it’s become too little too late in the face of pandemic lockdowns reducing global crude demand by about a third.

. 78 new cases takes Delhi tally to 2081. 2 deaths reported today, toll at 47.141 discharged today,431 discharged overall and1,603 in hospital.

. Jammu and Kashmir police have booked a female freelance photojournalist and a correspondent of a national daily for uploading “anti-national posts” on social media and regarding a fake news item being published in the “The Hindu” respectively

A police spokesperson said that cyber Police Station, Srinagar received information through reliable sources that one Facebook user namely Masrat Zehra is frequently uploading “anti-national posts with the criminal intention.”

. 14 more COVID-19 cases & 2 more deaths reported in Telangana, as of 8 pm today. Total cases in the state currently at 872 and deaths at 23: State Health Department

. 466 new COVID-19 cases & 9 deaths reported in Maharashtra till 6 PM today, taking total number of cases to 4666 & deaths to 232 in the State. With 65 patients being discharged from hospitals today, number of cured patients stands at 572: Maharashtra Health Dept

(ANI)

. Total Operational (initiated independent testing) Government Laboratories reporting to ICMR are 201 and 3 collection sites: Indian Council of Medical Research.

. Number of COVID-19 cases stands at 1,939 in Gujarat, with 93 fresh cases being reported today. Out of the total cases, 131 patients have recovered while 71 others succumbed to the disease: Gujarat Health Dept

(ANI)

. 84 More COVID-19 cases reported in Uttar Pradesh today. Total number of cases in the state is at 1184, including 1026 active cases, 140 discharged, and 18 deaths: State Health Department

. Chandigarh: Assistant Sub-Inspector Harjeet Singh, whose hand was chopped off (& later replanted) fighting off an attack, while enforcing curfew at Patiala Sabzi Mandi on 12 April, is recovering as his treatment is underway at Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education&Research(ANI)

. I am glad to share that Manipur is now Corona free.Both patients hv fully recovered and have tested negative.There are no fresh cases of the virus in the state.This has been possible because of cooperation of public &medical staff and strict enforcement of lockdown - CM N Biren Singh

. 43 new C OVID-19 positive cases & 2 deaths reported today, taking the total number of positive cases in Tamil Nadu to 1520. Total 17 deaths have been reported in state till date: Dr C Vijayabaskar, State Health Minister

. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee writes to PM Narendra Modi alleging that the Central teams (IMCTs) were sent to Bengal without prior intimation & was a breach of protocol

Defective coronavirus kits supplied by ICMR-NICED: West Bengal govt

. Number of COVID-19 cases reaches 245 in Punjab including 38 cured & 16 deaths. 61 cases have been reported in SAS Nagar, 48 in Jalandhar & 26 in Patiala: Punjab Health Department

. 53 journalists in Mumbai tested positive for COVID-19. All are under isolation.Samples of 171 journalists reporting from field,including Photographers,Video Journalists&Reporters,were collected.Most of the positive journalists were asymptomatic: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation

. There are 23 active COVID-19 cases in Himachal Pradesh, 11 patients have recovered, four migrated out of the State & one person succumbed to the disease. A total of 2902 people have been tested for COVID-19 so far: Himachal Pradesh Health Department

. Clash broke out between Police personnel & shopkeepers in Sirki Bazar area of Firozpur yesterday, allegedly after Police asked locals to close shops and follow

. The Reserve Bank of India Monday raised the Centre's Short term.funding support to Rs 2 lakh crore for April-September period, sharply up from Rs 75,000 crore in the same period last year in order to help the government fight Covid-19 crisis.

. With the Centre taking strong objection to certain relaxations by it in the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines, the Kerala state government on Monday decided not to allow plying of buses in cities, opening of restaurants and pillion riding on two-wheelers, official sources said.

. Union govt has hiked wages of workers under Mahatma Gandhi Employment Guarantee Act in the wake of c oronavirus. The average increase is Rs 20: Ministry of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj

. In a series of tweets, the minister also said a directive was issued on Sunday to airlines, restraining them from doing open bookings since they did not heed to government's advice in the matter.

. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at Parliament House today, as Lok Sabha Secretariat resumed work from today after they were shut on March 24 in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak.

. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at Parliament House today, as Lok Sabha Secretariat resumed work from today after they were shut on March 24 in the wake of C OVID-19 outbreak.

. Restrictions on domestic, international flights will be lifted when govt is confident that spread of coronavirus has been controlled, and poses no danger to Indians, says Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, amidst reports of some airlines doing open bookings

. 5 more police personnel from Chandni Mahal police station have tested positive for C OVID-19. Till now 8 personnel from the police station have tested positive for the virus: Delhi Police - ANI

. At a time when food shortage looms large due to the lockdown imposed to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) is making farming within the premises of the houses mandatory.

The SMC has asked people to use detached portions of their residential houses for growing vegetables and fruits. A public notice issued by the office of Joint Commissioner Planning, SMC reads that ongoing lockdown due to coronavirus has caged families in their homes and has a lesson for all thinkers, policy makers, planners as well as homemakers.

. "No one should think that lockdown has been lifted. We have just tried to revolve the wheel of economy a bit. I've heard that some people are treating relaxations as the lifting of lockdown. If they continue to behave like this we'll take strict measures," said Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray

We've suspended 2 policemen and appointed ADG CID Crime Atulchandra Kulkarni to investigate the matter. Over 100 persons arrested incl 5 main accused. There is nothing communal in this whole incident. I have spoken to Amit Shah ji this morning, saidMaharashtra CM on Palghar incident.

. Broad Modalities/Guidelines for rejoining have been planned in a phased manner considering the numbers of individuals rejoining from Leave/Temporary Duty/Courses and the requirement for smooth reporting, quarantine and onward dispersal to units: Indian Army

All personnel in the Indian Army will be classified as Green (who have completed 14 days Quarantine period), Yellow (who need to undergo 14 days Quarantine period) and Red (Symptomatic requiring isolation and further treatment in COVID-19 hospital): Indian Army

(ANI)

. Our legitimate needs for safe workplaces have to be met. Abuse and violence should stop immediately. White Alert to the nation - All doctors and hospitals to light a candle at 9pm on 22 April, as protest and vigil, said Indian Medical Association.

If the govt fails to enact Central Law on violence against Doctors & Hospitals even after White Alert, IMA will declare Black Day on 23rd April. All doctors in the country will work with black badges, saidIndian Medical Association in a statement.

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